An Overview on Elder Abuse and How to Detect It

  • June 24, 2019
  • Kimberly Whaley and Sareh Ebrahimi

INTRODUCTION

Elder abuse can take many forms, including financial, physical, psychological (mental or emotional) and sexual abuse to name a few. Neglect can also be a form of abuse.

According to the Canadian Department of Justice, financial abuse is the most commonly reported type of abuse against older adults.[1] However, the Department of Justice also commented on the difficulty in estimating the prevalence and incidence of elder abuse in Canada due to obvious factors associated with under-reporting.[2]

According to the World Health Organization, “elder abuse” is: “A single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person.”[3]

The National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly (“N.I.C.E.”) defines older adult financial abuse as, “Theft or exploitation of a person’s money, property or assets.”